Lana Nusseibeh Leads Delegation To Cyprus To Enhance Strategic Partnerships And Humanitarian Efforts

Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Minister of State, recently completed an official visit to Nicosia. During her trip, she engaged with several senior officials from Cyprus. This visit highlighted the strong relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Cyprus. Both nations are committed to enhancing their strategic partnership in various sectors.

In discussions with Nikos Christodoulides, President of Cyprus, they explored strategic relations between the UAE and Cyprus. They also talked about regional developments, the Amalthea Maritime Corridor, and Cyprus's upcoming European Union Presidency in 2026.

Nusseibeh visited the Port of Limassol to examine the facilities of the Amalthea Maritime Corridor. This humanitarian initiative was launched in March 2024 by Cyprus with support from the UAE and international partners like the United Nations. It aims to facilitate aid delivery to Gaza.

In April 2024, the UAE contributed US$15 million to support this initiative. By November 2025, over 27,000 tonnes of humanitarian assistance had been delivered to Gaza through this corridor.

During a meeting with Dr. Constantinos Kombos, Cyprus's Minister of Foreign Affairs, they discussed regional and international issues of mutual concern. Topics included Middle East developments and a recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

Kombos emphasized that "the UAE is a regional pioneer, guided by visionary leadership." He added that "the UAE is a strategic ally and a longstanding friend." Both countries aim to strengthen cooperation across humanitarian, economic, and multilateral fields.

Commitment to Peace and Prosperity

Nusseibeh highlighted that the UAE’s humanitarian diplomacy reflects its values of solidarity and international cooperation. She noted that delivering aid through initiatives like the Amalthea Maritime Corridor demonstrates these values.

She also welcomed progress on the UAE-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Nusseibeh pointed out that Cyprus’s forthcoming EU Presidency presents an opportunity to expand this partnership further. This could help advance peace, recovery, and prosperity across the region.

The meeting underscored both nations' commitment to adhering to ceasefire agreements in Gaza. They stressed that all parties must comply with these agreements to alleviate humanitarian suffering effectively.

Nusseibeh's visit reaffirmed both countries' dedication to strengthening their strategic partnership across various fields. The discussions during her visit laid a foundation for future collaboration between the UAE and Cyprus.

With inputs from WAM